104 BURIAL MOUNDS OF THE NORTHERN SECTIONS. 
In addition to the foregoing, there are a number of small fragments 
probably broken from these plates, but, so far, I have been unable to fit 
them to their proper places. 
These plates and the ones mentioned below are very thin, and as 
even and smooth (except as interrupted by the figures) as tin plate. 
The figures are all stamped, the lines and indentations being very sharp 
and regular. 
An examination of what Mr. Rogan calls a skin shows beyond ques- 
tion that it is animal matter. The matting he speaks of appears to be 
made of split canes. 
The shell represented in Fig. 46 is the one obtained in grave g. The 
one shown in Fig. 47 is that found in grave /. 

Fic. 47.—Engraved shell from Etowah mound, Georgia. 
I shall at present simply call attention to one or two facts which ap- 
pear to bear upon the age and distribution of these singular specimens 
of art. 
First. We notice the fact alluded to by Mr. Holmes,’ which is 
apparent to every one who inspects his accurately drawn figures, that 
in all their leading features the designs themselves are suggestive of 
Mexican or Central American work. Yet a close inspection brings 

' Science, April 11, 1884. 
